The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
